Crossbow Safety Lock With Anti-Dry Fire Trigger Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projectile launchers lack effective safety mechanisms to prevent inadvertent firing, posing a risk of accidental discharge.
Innovation Solution
A crossbow design incorporating a string carrier with a safety mechanism that includes a sear, anti-dry fire lockout, safety, and safety lock to ensure the crossbow cannot be fired unless in a fully drawn position and with the safety in the 'on' state, preventing accidental discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a safety mechanism is added to prevent inadvertent firing, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The safety mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a safety member that blocks the trigger, a safety lock that prevents movement of the safety member, and a safety switch that controls the lock. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system safety without requiring a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety lock acts as an intermediary between the safety switch and the safety member. It receives input from the safety switch and translates it into mechanical blocking action, preventing direct interaction between the trigger and firing mechanism unless safety conditions are met.
2Reliability
If multiple safety components are implemented, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The safety mechanism components are merged into an integrated assembly that works together through mechanical linkage. The safety member, safety lock, and safety switch are combined in such a way that operating the safety switch automatically engages the lock and blocks the trigger, providing safety without requiring the user to manually manage multiple separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the position of the safety switch. When the safety switch is activated, the safety lock automatically moves to block the trigger, and when deactivated, it automatically releases. This self-service operation eliminates the need for manual intervention in safety locking.
Data Source
AI summary
A crossbow includes a drawstring extending across a projectile axis and configured to move between an undrawn position and a drawn position during operation of the crossbow, a string carrier slidably coupled with a frame and configured to selectively engage with the drawstring to move the drawstring from the undrawn position to the drawn position, a trigger operatively coupled with the string carrier and configured to cause the string carrier to selectively release the drawstring upon actuation of the trigger, and a safety operatively coupled to at least one of the string carrier and the trigger and configured to move between a safe position and a fire position, the safety configured to prevent the string carrier from releasing the drawstring with the safety in the safe position. The safety is prohibited from moving from the safe position to the fire position in absence of a condition.